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Recall - Lower Control Arms: Overview

May 1999

Safety Recall No. 826 -- Lower Control Arms

Models

2000 (PL) Dodge and Plymouth Neon

NOTE:
This recall applies only to the above vehicles built through January 27, 1999 (MDH 012718).

IMPORTANT:
Many of the vehicles within the above build period have already been inspected or repaired and, therefore, have been exchided from this recall.

IMPORTANT:
Some of the involved vehicles may be in dealer new vehicle inventory. Federal law requires you to complete this recall service on these vehicles before retail delivery. Dealers should also consider this requirement to apply to used vehicle inventory and should perform this recall on vehicles in for service as determined by using the DIAL VIP System.

Subject
The front suspension lower control arm pivot tubes on about 750 of the above vehicles may be improperly welded and could separate from the lower control arms. Separation of the pivot tube may result in a loss of vehicle control and cause an accident without warning.

Repair

Both front suspension lower control arms must be replaced.

Parts Information

Part Number Description

CBA08260 Lower Control Arm Package

Each package contains the following components:

Quantity Description

1 Lower Control Arm - Left
1 Lower Control Arm - Right
2 Pinch Bolts
2 Nuts

Each dealer to whom vehicles in the recall were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive enough Lower Control Arm Packages to service about 25% of those vehicles.

Completion Reporting and Reimbursement

Claims for vehicles that have been serviced must be submitted on the DIAL System. Claims submitted will be used by DaimlerChrysler to record recall service completions and provide dealer payments.

Use the following labor operation number and time allowance:

Labor Operation Time
Number Allowance

Replace both lower control arms and 02826182 1.9 hours
adjust toe to specification

Add the cost of the recall parts package plus applicable dealer allowance to your claim.

NOTE:
See the Warranty Administration Manual, Recall Claim Processing Section, for complete recall claim processing instructions

Parts Return

Not required.

Dealer Notification and Vehicle List

All dealers will receive a copy of this dealer recall notification letter by first class mail. Two additional copies will be sent through the DCMMS and the "TIL" will be updated to include this recall in the near future. Each dealer to whom involved vehicles were invoiced (or the current dealer at the same street address) will receive a list of their involved vehicles. The vehicle list is arranged in Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) sequence. Owners known to DaimlerChrysler are also listed. The lists are for dealer reference in arranging for service of involved vehicles.

DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP

All involved vehicles will be entered to DIAL System Functions 53 and VIP at the time of recall implementation for dealer inquiry as needed.

Function 53 provides involved dealers with an updated VIN list of their incomplete vehicles. The customer name, address and phone number are listed if known. Completed vehicles are removed from Function 53 within several days of repair claim submission. To use this system, type "53" at the "ENTER FUNCTION" prompt, then type "ORD826".

Owner Notification and Service Scheduling

All involved vehicle owners known to DaimlerChrysler are being notified of the service requirement by first class mail. They are requested to schedule appointments for this service with their dealers. A copy of the owner notification letter is included.

Enclosed with each owner notification is an Owner Notification Form. The involved vehicle and recall are identified on the form for owner or dealer reference as needed.

Vehicle Not Available

If a vehicle is not available for service, let us know by filling out the pre-addressed Owner Notification Form or describe the reason on a postcard and mail to:

DaimlerChrysler Corporation
CIMS 482-00-85
800 Chrysler Drive Last
Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326-2757

Additional Information

If you have any questions or need assistance in completing this action, please contact your Zone Service Office.